The LSU College of Agriculture’s Agriculture Residential College (ARC) in Blake Hall, a dormitory on the LSU campus, is a living-learning community for first-year students. Students must apply, and the occupancy is around 100. ARC offers students the opportunity to live and take classes with the same group of peers, thus creating a smaller network within the larger LSU campus. ARC students go on field trips and attend special interest lectures that focus on agricultural issues in a changing world. They learn about the many career choices in agriculture. There are social events, too, as well as chances for community service.

Haley Rupp, an animal sciences major, holds a baby alligator while visiting the LSU AgCenter Aquaculture Research Station as part of the many activities planned for students who live in the Agriculture Residential College (ARC). Photo by Tobie Blanchard

ARC students roast marshmallows after a tour of the LSU AgCenter Botanic Gardens at Burden. Photo by Tobie Blanchard

ARC students go on field trips and get hands-on experience in various aspects of agriculture. Photo by Tobie Blanchard

ARC students participate in "track" days designed to give them experience in the fields of their choice. Photo by Tobie Blanchard